In a significant move to deepen defence ties with Russia, India is all set to sign multiple defence deals that run into several billion dollars.

The S-400 systems are one of the most advanced defence equipment in the world and will be a major addition to India’s defence capabilities.

In a significant move to deepen defence ties with Russia, India is all set to sign multiple defence deals that run into several billion dollars. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin are expected to sign crucial defence project deals that will give India a huge fillip in terms of its defence preparedness. The multi-billion dollar deals come at an opportune time, for India is facing increased tensions from its neighbours Pakistan and China. From getting one of the world’s most formidable weapons system, S-400, to agreeing to manufacture helicopters under Make in India, India’s defence is set for a revamp. We take a look at 5 deals that India hopes to sign with Russia, some of it today, and others later.

S-400 Triumf air defense missile system

The deal for five S-400 air defence missile system will cost India anywhere between Rs 39,000 crore to Rs 40,000 crore. The S-400 systems are one of the most advanced defence equipment in the world and will be a major addition to India’s defence capabilities. The system has 8 launchers, a control centre, a powerful radar and 16 missiles that are available for reload. The system is capable of firing three types of missiles, hence creating a layered defence for any country that owns it. Russian experts proclaim that the S-400 system can shoot down fifth-generation fighter jets, like America’s most advanced F-35s!

The S-400 system, which is referred to as the ‘Growler’ by NATO countries, is capable of tracking 300 targets and can shoot down around three dozen of them within a range of up to 400 kms! The tracking range of S-400 actually goes up to 600 kms! The S-400 is actually an upgraded version of the S-300, had previously only been available to the Russian defence forces. It is said to have 2.5 times faster firing rate than its predecessor. It is manufactured by Almaz-Antey and has been in service in Russia since 2007. The S-400 has also been deployed by Russia to Syria. Needless to say that with such a big range and speed, the S-400 Triumf would be a very formidable deterrent against any incoming threats from Pakistan.

The nearly $1 billion deal for Kamov 226T light utility helicopters will be signed between India’s HAL and Russia’s Rostec under the Modi government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. The helicopters will replace India’s ageing fleet of Cheetah and Chetak. The Kamov 226T is a twin-engine light but multi-role chopper, that Russian Helicopers offers for both military and civilian purposes. The Kamov 226T is a light multipurpose helicopter that can be used effectively for reconnaissance, targeting and monitoring of transportation (up to 1,500 kg).

Watch file video: S-400 Triumf Hits Moving Targets in Dark

Russian Helicopters, which makes the Kamov choppers, says that the military version of 226T is capable of working in extreme and difficult weather conditions. This includes hot climate, marine areas and high mountains. The chopper can carry up to seven paratroopers of security personnel, says Russian Helicopters. Under the deal, Russia will give India 200 Kamov helicopters. The helicopter has a maximum speed of 250 km/hour and a cruise speed of 220 km/hour. The maximum take off weight of the helicopter is 3,600 kg and it runs on the 2hArrius 2G1, Turbomeca engines.

There is buzz thats India will also sign a deal for four Admiral Grigorovich-class (Project 11356) guided-missile stealth frigates. According to an Indian Express report, this will involve the direct supply of two vessels from Russia even as the other two will be made in India. The shipyard for making these frigates in India will be chosen by a competitive process, the report said. The 3,620-tonne Admiral Grigorovich-class can be fitted with the BrahMos missiles. It is a derivative of the six Talwar-class frigates that Russia built for the Indian Navy between 2003 and 2013.

Upgradation of the Sukhoi 30MKI

India and Russia are also reported to have made significant progress with regards to negotiations for the modernization of Su-30 MKI multi-role fighters. According to the “Russia & India” report, an agreement for the same will be signed soon. Discussions have been underway for some time to upgrade the aircraft to “Super Sukhoi”. The cost of the deal, which will be in the range of $7 to $8 billion is in works.

According to “Russia & India Report”, discussions to jointly develop the FGFA, which has been suspended over differences on the percentage of work-share in the research and development content, have now started again. The prospective $6 billion deal is back on the negotiation table ahead of the Summit and the final deal may entail Russia making over 100 fighters in India. However, even as India and Russia discuss the possibilities, it is unlikely that a deal will be signed today.